For many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), retiring in India is a cherished goal. One man, who returned to India with his wife after spending 25 years in the United States, shared that the adjustment hasn’t been entirely smooth. The biggest challenge? Chaotic traffic conditions.
He wrote that some of their friends back in the US, also considering retirement in India, frequently ask about life after returning home. He explained that while there are many positive aspects — like being near aging parents, affordable healthcare, and help from house staff — traffic remains a major obstacle.
He expressed frustration over the undisciplined driving, constant honking, and lack of lane discipline, explaining that even though US cities like Chicago have traffic, they maintain better road order. He emphasized that India is losing potential economic contributions from returning NRIs due to the condition of urban traffic.
Social media users had mixed reactions. One commenter pointed out that with a population of 1.5 billion, traffic is inevitable. Another questioned why returnees would choose crowded cities for retirement. The man simply replied, “Mom.”
Others highlighted reasons why NRIs consider returning — such as family ties and domestic help — while acknowledging that less chaotic infrastructure can also be found in gated communities or private townships. However, they agreed that fixing traffic in major cities is a long-term challenge due to the sheer scale and complexity.
This discussion reflects the broader dilemma many NRIs face — balancing emotional connections with practical challenges when considering a move back home.
